Mortification

Putting Sin to Death: The Forgotten Art of Mortification

Have you ever felt like you’re constantly battling the same sins, over and over again? Do you sometimes wonder if there’s a way to break free from the cycle of temptation and failure? The answer might lie in an often-overlooked spiritual practice: mortification.

As I recently shared with my congregation, mortification is a powerful tool for spiritual growth that every Christian should understand and practice. But what exactly does it mean to “mortify” sin?

What is Mortification?

Mortification, simply put, is the act of putting sin to death in our lives. It’s not a popular topic in many churches today, but it’s a crucial aspect of our walk with Christ. As I explained in my sermon, “The word means to put to death… These are the things that are to be put to death.”

In Colossians 3:5, the Apostle Paul instructs us to “Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature.” This isn’t just a suggestion – it’s a command for all believers.

What Needs to be Mortified?

The Bible is clear about the kinds of sins we need to put to death. In Colossians 3:5-9, Paul provides a list that includes:

1. Sexual immorality
2. Impurity
3. Lust
4. Evil desires
5. Greed
6. Anger
7. Rage
8. Malice
9. Slander
10. Filthy language
11. Lying

As I emphasized in my sermon, “This is not my list. This is God’s list.” We don’t get to pick and choose which sins to mortify – all of them need to go.

How Do We Mortify Sin?

Now, you might be thinking, “This sounds great, but how do I actually do it?” The key lies in understanding our position in Christ and relying on His power.

1. Remember Your Position in Christ

As believers, we are united with Christ in His death and resurrection. “If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God” (Colossians 3:1). Our union with Christ gives us the power to overcome sin.

2. Set Your Mind on Heavenly Things

“Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth” (Colossians 3:2). When we focus on eternal realities, earthly temptations lose their power over us.

3. Rely on the Holy Spirit

In Romans 8:13, Paul tells us, “For if you live according to the flesh you will die, but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live.” We can’t mortify sin in our own strength – we need the power of the Holy Spirit.

4. Remember Your New Identity

“You have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God” (Colossians 3:3). We are new creations in Christ, no longer slaves to sin.

Putting It Into Practice

So how can we apply this teaching to our daily lives? Here are some practical steps:

1. Identify the sins you need to mortify. Be honest with yourself and with God.
2. Confess these sins to God and ask for His forgiveness and help.
3. Meditate on Scripture that reminds you of your identity in Christ and the power you have over sin.
4. When temptation comes, actively choose to “put to death” that sinful desire, relying on the Holy Spirit’s power.
5. Replace sinful habits with godly ones. As you “put off” the old self, “put on” the new self (Colossians 3:10).

Remember, as I said in my sermon, “Be killing sin, or it will be killing you.” Mortification isn’t a one-time event, but a lifelong process. It’s not always easy, but with Christ’s power and the Spirit’s help, we can experience victory over sin and grow in holiness.

Let’s commit to taking sin seriously and actively putting it to death in our lives. As we do, we’ll find ourselves growing closer to Christ and experiencing the abundant life He promises.